Uses

Principal Proposed Uses

Not Recommended Uses

The herb eyebright has been used since the Middle Ages as an eyewash for
infection or inflammation of the eye. However, as much as one would like to believe that
all traditions are wise, eyebright appears to have been selected for treating
eye diseases not because it works particularly well, but because its petals look
bloodshot.
1
This follows from the classic medieval philosophic
attitude known as the
Doctrine of Signatures,
which states that herbs
show their proper use by their appearance.

What Is Eyebright Used for Today?

Like many herbs, eyebright contains astringent substances and volatile oils that are probably at least slightly antibacterial. But there's no evidence that eyebright is particularly effective for treating
conjunctivitis (pink eye)
or any other eye disease; Germany's Commission E recommends against using it. Warm compresses consisting of nothing but water (or ordinary black tea) are probably equally effective under the same conditions.

Eyebright tea is also sometimes taken internally to treat jaundice, respiratory infections, and memory loss. However, there is no evidence that it is effective for any of these conditions.

Dosage

Traditionally, eyebright tea is made by boiling 1 tablespoon of the herb in a
cup of water. This is then used as an eyewash or taken internally up to 3 times
daily.

Safety Issues

Eyebright can cause tearing of the eyes, itching, redness, and many other
symptoms, probably due to direct irritation.
2
It appears to be safe when
taken internally, but not many studies have been performed. Safety in young children,
pregnant or nursing women, or those with severe liver or kidney disease
has not been established.

Revision Information

This content is reviewed regularly and is updated when new and relevant evidence is made available. This information is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with questions regarding a medical condition.